On Sunday April 17, 2016, the Rt. Rev. Sam B Hulsey, assisting bishop in the Episcopal Diocese of Fort Worth, visited St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church. St. Martin’s was blessed with a huge growth of ministry as 25 teens and adults made a mature and independent affirmation of their faith, and two children were baptized.
In his sermon, Bishop Hulsey encouraged the congregation to become the Gospel, not to just share, tell, and hold it up and hear it in a worshipful way. “Spirituality is messy and untidy, with few straight paths, but we are new creations every day.” Watch or listen to Bishop Hulsey’s encouraging and inspiring words in his sermon.
Led by Bishop Hulsey, the congregation promised to support the candidates in their life in Christ and renewed their baptismal covenant. Bishop Hulsey blessed the water of baptism, and the Rev. Scot McComas baptized three new members.
With laying on hands and blessing, Bishop Hulsey confirmed 11 youth and six adults, received six adults, and blessed two who renewed their baptismal vows.
After the service, St. Martin’s honored those who were baptized and who made commitments with a reception. St. Martin’s also thanked former Senior Warden Bob Bess for his efforts above and beyond the normal call as a senior lay leader. Bob led St. Martin’s through it’s rector’s retirement, through an interim rector period, and as they began new ministry with a new rector. Bob was presented a painting by member and artist Shawn Rees as a gift to recognize his service. The painting shows a familiar canopy of trees along the road that Bess drove to church.
Bishop Hulsey graciously met with confirmands and members at the reception and then met with the Vestry at their monthly business meeting.
Don’t miss the photos of this busy day; flip through the slideshow below, or click here to view the photos in St. Martin’s Flickr album.
